In a debate commemorating the 20th anniversary of the 2004 European Union enlargement, local and regional leaders reflected on the significant achievements of the enlargement process in villages, cities and regions and the vital importance of continuing this journey toward a united Europe.
Marek Woźniak, head of the Polish delegation in the CoR and President of Wielkopolska Region, highlighted that the 2004 enlargement is not just a success for the 10 new member states but for the entire EU. He noted that this expansion has strengthened the EU economically, improved connectivity, enhanced energy security, and led to increased GDP per capita while reducing unemployment across his region.
Nikola Dobroslavić, President of Dubrovnik-Neretva County and CoR rapporteur on the Enlargement package 2023, emphasized that future enlargements must adhere to strict criteria such as the rule of law, anti-corruption measures, and media freedom. “These criteria are non-negotiable and should serve as minimum standards for EU accession,” he stated. Dobroslavić underscored the need for a merit-based process and EU support for candidate countries to align their policies with EU standards. In light of current geopolitical challenges, Dobroslavić urged that the completion of the reunification of Europe is more crucial than ever. He called for continued encouragement and assistance for aspiring members, stressing the need for proper representation and a significant role for local and regional authorities in this process.
Valdas Benkunskas, Mayor of Vilnius, spoke on the transformative impact of EU membership on Lithuania and its capital. “Thank you for the opportunity to share the achievements of Vilnius, the capital city, and of Lithuania as a whole, thanks to our membership of the EU. Twenty years ago, we established a clear policy direction for our country — we opened the door to a democratic Europe. This has become an invaluable opportunity to cooperate, improve infrastructure, promote innovation, invest in progress, and ensure sustainability,” he stated. Benkunskas noted that EU membership has strengthened Lithuania’s innovation sector, turning Vilnius into a hub for scientific discovery and technology start-ups. “EU membership has enabled Vilnius to increase the city's energy efficiency and adopt a climate-neutral development path, contributing to its title as European Green Capital 2025. “By becoming an EU Member State and with your help, we have taken a bold step into the future — a more sustainable, modern, safe, and progressive Lithuania with Vilnius as its capital.”
Olgierd Geblewicz, President of the EPP-CoR group and of West-Pomerania region recalled the eve of Poland’s accession to the EU, expressing gratitude for the visionary leaders who paved the way for a united Europe. “As a Pole, I can proudly say that the decisions made 20 years ago have transformed our nation and strengthened our commitment to European unity,” he said.
The debate concluded with a shared commitment among CoR members to continue fostering enlargement as a common goal, ensuring that all aspiring EU members meet the necessary criteria while reinforcing the values and principles that unite the European community.